10 of the Oldest Parish Churches in the U.S. That Have Stood the Test of Time

America has a rich history, and some of its oldest stories are told by its churches. These buildings have seen centuries pass by—wars, peace, and everything in between. 

These sacred spaces have witnessed centuries of history unfold, offering solace, inspiration, and a sense of belonging to countless generations.

1. Cathedral Basilica of Saint Augustine

• Location: St. Augustine, Florida  
• Founded: 1565

The oldest continuously active parish in the United States, established shortly after the founding of St. Augustine itself. Its Spanish Colonial architecture reflects its deep historical roots.

The Cathedral Basilica serves as the mother church of the Diocese of St. Augustine remains a vital center of Catholic faith and community in Florida.  

2. St. Bernard de Clairvaux Church

• Location: North Miami Beach, Florida
• Founded: 12th century (originally in Spain), reassembled in Florida in 1952  

Originally constructed in Spain in the 12th century, it was disassembled, transported, and meticulously reassembled in Florida.

Its Romanesque architecture, with its distinctive stonework and arches, evokes a sense of medieval grandeur and serves as a reminder of the enduring power of faith and human ingenuity.

3. Basilica of the Immaculate Conception

• Location: Mobile, Alabama
• Founded: 1703

One of the oldest Catholic parishes in the American South, the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception stands as a testament to the resilience of faith communities in the face of adversity.

It has survived fires, hurricanes, and the ravages of time. Its Greek Revival architecture, with its majestic columns and grand dome, exudes a sense of elegance and serenity.

4. St. John’s Episcopal Church

• Location: Hampton, Virginia  
• Founded: 1610

This church is the oldest continuously active Episcopal parish in the United States. Its simple yet dignified architecture, with its brick walls and stained-glass windows, creates an atmosphere of quiet contemplation and spiritual reflection.

The church’s churchyard contains the graves of notable figures from American history.  

5. Trinity Episcopal Cathedral

• Location: Cleveland, Ohio
• Founded: 1816

While not as old as some of the other churches on this list, Trinity Episcopal Cathedral holds a prominent place in the history of the Episcopal Church in the Midwest.

Its Gothic Revival architecture, with its soaring spires and intricate stonework, evokes a sense of awe and wonder. The cathedral serves as the seat of the Episcopal Diocese of Ohio. 

6. Grace United Methodist Church

• Locations: St. Augustine, Florida
• Founded: 1887

This church stands out for its architectural beauty, designed by the renowned Carrère and Hastings firm. It was a gift from Henry Flagler, a prominent figure in the development of Florida’s East Coast.

7. Gesù Catholic Church

• Locations: Miami, Florida
• Founded: 1896

“Gesù” is the Italian word for Jesus. This is the oldest Catholic parish in South Florida.

The present church building, completed in 1922, is a landmark in downtown Miami, known for its beautiful architecture and active role in the community.

8. Old St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church

• Location: Charleston, South Carolina
• Founded: 1706

As one of the oldest continuously active churches in the Southern United States, its historic churchyard contains the graves of notable figures from South Carolina’s past.

The church’s architecture reflects its Georgian heritage, with its simple lines and elegant proportions. 

9. Mission San Miguel Arcangel

• Location: San Miguel, California
• Founded: 17997  

Named after Saint Michael the Archangel, it was the 16th mission founded in the chain of 21 that stretched across Alta California.

Its interior walls still feature original paintings and colors, created by skilled Native American artisans. Even now, the mission continues to serve as an active parish church.

10. Jamestown Church

• Location: Jamestown, Virginia  
• Founded: 1607  

The first permanent Anglican church in North America, Jamestown Church represents the earliest roots of the Episcopal Church in the United States.

While the current brick structure dates back to the late 17th century, the original church was built in 1607, shortly after the founding of Jamestown itself.